Use of certain things that irritate the oral tissues such as tobacco ,both chewing and smoking, toothpastes and mouth rinses that contain sodium lauryl sulphate

Recurrent or long lasting mouth ulcers also can be a sign of conditions that are more serious and require medical treatment, such as inflammatory bowel disease,as anemia, crohn’s disease, celiac disease, diabetes mellitus, Behcet’s disease and oral cancers.

Certain medications may also cause oral sores/ulcers, therefore if you notice ulcers after starting a medicine recently, it is advisable to talk your doctor about it.

Treatment of mouth ulcers–

Treatment is usually not necessary for minor canker sores, which tend to clear on their own in a week or two. But large, persistent, unusually painful or recurrent sores often need medical care. The treatment includes avoidance of irritating foods and substances, treatment of the cause, and topical treatments.

Deficiency of vitamins being a very common cause, taking nutritional supplements like folic acid, vitamin B-6, vitamin B-12, and zinc can help but must be discussed with doctor before taking.

For recurrent or long lasting oral ulcers, it is best to get a detailed evaluation from a doctor.

Topical treatments and home remedies-

Gargle with salt water

using over-the-counter benzocaine (topical anaesthetic) products

Damp tea bags are soothing and provide relief form the pain and can be placed on the sores.

Rinsing your mouth with a salt water or baking soda rinse which can be made by Mixing 1 teaspoon of baking soda per ½ cup water.

Tips to prevent oral ulcers- There are no absolute measures by which canker sores can be prevented, the following measures would help

It is best to keep a watch on your diet and avoid very hot foods and drinks

Chew slowly to avoid accidental biting.

Use a soft toothbrush and practice regular dental hygiene avoid vigorous brushing and it is important to avoid toothpastes and mouth rinses that contain sodium lauryl sulfate.

See your dentist if any dental hardware or teeth may be irritating your mouth

If your canker sores seem to be related to stress, learn and use stress-reduction techniques, such as meditation

Eat a balanced diet take a daily multivitamin eat plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole grains.

Drink plenty of water

Don’t smoke or use tobacco

Avoid or limit alcohol consumption

Shade your lips when in the sun, or use SPF 15 lip balm

It is a good idea to visit your doctor for a check-up and discussion if you have been getting oral ulcers too frequently or if they have been staying for long or if they seem to have appeared after you were started on a medication.